Not only does January 2018 offer us two full Moons, but the 2nd (Blue Moon) one will include a total lunar eclipse. The morning of January 31, 2018 will treat observers in western North America to a total lunar eclipse just before sunrise. The partial eclipse will start at 5:48 AM CST in Austin and the full eclipse at 6:51 AM. The Moon will slip below the horizon during the full eclipse at sunrise at 7:22 AM.

The Moon will be less than 4 degrees to the left of the Beehive cluster and 6 degrees above the western horizon at the start of the full eclipse. This offers some good opportunities to photographers. A 200mm (FFE) lens will capture a 6.8 x 10.3 degree chunk of sky. Pick a spot with an interesting horizon view centered on the WNW (287 deg) and you should have 20 minutes or so to catch the perfect moonset eclipse image.

Make your plans and put this on your calendar. If we have clear skies, you will be ready for the Kodak moment.